Years In Service: 1956-Today
Initial Flight: April 7, 1955
The C-130 is a turboprop airlifter designed to operate off unimproved surfaces, or airfields with short runways. Outside of military use, C-130s are used in humanitarian aid, resupply, weather reconnaissance, maritime patrol, firefighting, scientific research, and aerial refueling. This specific aircraft led the raid on the Son Tay Prison during the Vietnam War to rescue American POW’s in November 1970.
Aircraft Specifications
Height: 37′ 4″ Wingspan: 132′ 5″ Length: 97′ 8″ Crew: 5 Payload: Up to 42,637 lbs. of supplies, personnel, and light vehicles No. of Engines: 4 Horsepower: 4,508 hp Cruise speed: 336 mph Max Speed: 373 mph Ceiling: 33,000 ft.